Archive · 26 Jan 2026
Sinners Makes Oscar History with 16 Nominations
The movie Sinners, directed by Ryan Coogler and starring Michael B. Jordan, made history by getting 16 Oscar nominations, which is the most ever.
This is surprising because the movie is a vampire-horror film, a genre that usually doesn't get many Oscar nods.
The movie also has a special deal where Coogler will own the rights to the film after 25 years, which is unusual in the movie business.
Some people think the Oscars are more about what the industry wants to reward at the moment rather than what will last.
Another film, One Battle After Another, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, deals with important themes and shows how action can affect those close to you.
It's a timely piece that might not get as much attention because it doesn't fit the current industry narrative as well as Sinners does.
Sinners received a record 16 Oscar nominations, surpassing the previous record of 14 held by La La Land, Titanic, and All About Eve.
The film's director, Ryan Coogler, negotiated a deal with Warner Bros. to gain ownership rights to the film after 25 years.
The rise of streaming services has made it more important for directors to own the rights to their films due to the potential for long-term revenue.
The film's success is notable because it is a vampire-horror film, a genre that is not typically recognized by the Oscars.
One Battle After Another, directed by Paul Thomas Anderson, addresses timely themes and showcases uncompromising filmmaking, but it may not receive as much attention as Sinners.
- Who
- Ryan Coogler (director), Michael B. Jordan (lead actor), Warner Bros. (studio)
- What
- Sinners received a record 16 Oscar nominations and has a unique ownership deal; One Battle After Another is a notable film that wrestles with current themes.
- When
- Oscar nominations announced on January 22, 2024; films released in 2023
- Where
- Hollywood, USA
- Why
- The film's critical acclaim, unique ownership deal, and industry narrative contributed to its success; One Battle After Another addresses timely themes and showcases uncompromising filmmaking.
Industry Narrative
Cinematic Merit
Purpose of Awards
Industry Narrative
Awards stabilize the moment and affirm what the industry believes it needs to stand for right now.
Cinematic Merit
Awards should identify and reward cinematic excellence and enduring legacy.
Sinners' Success
Industry Narrative
Sinners is celebrated for what it symbolizes industrially, not for its cinematic achievements.
Cinematic Merit
Sinners' success should be attributed to its cinematic merit and artistic contributions.
Industry Anxiety
Industry Narrative
Hollywood's current anxiety and aggressive signaling are about reasserting relevance and control.
Cinematic Merit
Hollywood should focus on artistic integrity and cultural impact rather than industry politics.
- Film
- Sinners
- Director
- Ryan Coogler
- Lead Actor
- Michael B. Jordan
- Oscar Nominations
- 16
- Previous Record Holders
- La La Land, Titanic, All About Eve (14 nominations each)
- Ownership Deal
- Coogler to gain ownership rights after 25 years
- Genre
- Vampire-horror
- Release Year
- 2023
- Other Notable Film
- One Battle After Another
- Director of One Battle After Another
- Paul Thomas Anderson
Sources
With record Oscar nominations, ‘Sinners’ spotlights unique film ownership model
From the Opinions Editor: At a time of narrowing in American politics, Oscars are a reminder that America’s enduring strength lies in its capacity to remain open
